š„š Neoliberal Policies Blamed for Joburg's Devastating Shack Fires! š”
- MediaFx
- Feb 5
- 2 min read
TL;DR:Ā Recent shack fires in Johannesburg have left many families homeless. The General Industries Workers Union of South Africa (GIWUSA) says these tragedies are due to neoliberal policies that neglect the working class. They argue that such policies force people into unsafe living conditions, making disasters like these inevitable.
Hey folks! š Let's chat about something serious happening in Johannesburg. Recently, a massive fire swept through the Selby informal settlement in Booysens, leaving about 200 working-class families without homes. Just days before, another blaze in the Diepsloot slum tragically took the lives of a young woman and a toddler. These incidents aren't just random accidents; there's a bigger picture here.
The General Industries Workers Union of South Africa (GIWUSA) is pointing fingers at neoliberal policies. They believe these policies have led to the neglect of working-class communities, pushing them into overcrowded slums with flimsy, flammable shacks. Without proper housing programs, many are left in these "deadly traps," as GIWUSA calls them.
A significant number of South Africans, nearly a quarter of the population, still rely on wood, coal, and charcoal for cooking, using open flames. In these informal settlements, the risk of fires is even higher due to makeshift electrical connections and the use of candles for lighting. It's a disaster waiting to happen.
The UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction highlighted that shack fires are a leading cause of unnatural deaths in South Africa. These fires don't just take lives; they destroy livelihoods, leaving already struggling families with nothing. Important documents like IDs and birth certificates are often lost, making it harder for victims to access state support.
GIWUSA isn't just pointing out problems; they're demanding solutions. They want the government to electrify slums, compensate affected families, and, most importantly, invest in public housing. With over 40% unemployment and many in the construction industry without work, building public housing could provide jobs and safe homes for millions.
It's high time we address these issues from a working-class perspective. Neoliberal policies prioritize profits over people, leading to inequality and suffering. We must push for policies that ensure everyone has access to safe housing and basic services. Let's stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Johannesburg and demand change!ā
